Health Information National Trends Survey (HINTS), 2003

The Health Information National Trends Survey (HINTS) collects nationally representative data about the American public's access to and use of cancer-related information. This data collection consists of the 2003 survey which focused on the changing patterns, needs, and behavior in seeking and supplying cancer information, and explored how cancer risks are perceived. A series of questions specifically addressed colon and breast cancer and respondents' familiarity with cancer screening procedures such as mammogram, colonoscopy, and the PSA test. Information was also gathered on physical and mental health status, smoking history, how often respondents ate fruits and vegetables, and whether they had health insurance. Demographic variables include sex, age, race, education level, employment status, marital status, household income, type of residential area (e.g., urban or rural), and whether respondents had children under the age of 18.